2017https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017.aspxNATO Advisory Team Interoperability Advisor with a lecture in a local university about what is NATOhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/nato-advisory-team-interoperability-advisor-with-a-lecture-in-a-local-university-about-what-is-nato.aspx
<p>At the University of Law Goce Delchev in Shtip, the NATO Liaison Office Skopje gave a lecture about "What is NATO” to the students on Dec. 12.</p>
<div><strong><em>Story by NLO Skopje PA Office</em></strong></div>
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<p><strong>SHTIP, Eastern region of Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - At the University of Law Goce Delchev in Shtip, the NATO Liaison Office Skopje gave a lecture about "What is NATO” to the students on Dec. 12.</p>
<p>This lecture, by Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Barone, was aimed at describing what NATO is and how it is organized. The lecture started out with the history of NATO since its foundation, and the difference between its member and partner nations. The decision making process and the consensus principle were also elaborated, with a general overview of NATO’s current activities and future challenges. </p>
<p>"Within today’s lecture, Lieutenant Colonel Barone will explain to us what NATO is. This gives the opportunity to get the students closer to the basics of NATO, its foundation, functions, joining NATO and so on,” said Professor Ana Nikodinovska-Krstevska, PhD, Law University Goce Delcev. "The goal is to obtain a clearer picture for NATO and integration in NATO. He will also explain the general characteristics of NATO, the overlaps of responsibilities between NATO and EU and will try to bring us a step closer to the NATO role currently and in the future.”</p>
<p>The lecture intrigued great interest among the young students and resulted with many questions. Many of them referred to the name dispute with Greece and when the country can be integrated in NATO as well as solutions to the name dispute with Greece. The event took place in the official hall of the university. </p>
<p>NATO Liaison Office Skopje will continue to support the country in its endeavor to join the NATO family. </p>
<p>*Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.<br />
</p></div>Thu, 14 Dec 2017 15:16:26 GMTNATO Liaison Office Skopje holds its annual reception https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/nato-liaison-office-skopje-holds-its-annual-reception-.aspxNATO Liaison Office Skopje hosted its annual reception for the representatives of the government, members of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff, officers and state servants in the defense and security area, diplomats and defense attaches and other members of the International Community.
<p><strong><em>Story by NLO Skopje Public Affairs</em></strong><strong></strong></p><strong></strong>
<p><strong></strong><strong>SKOPJE, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - NATO Liaison Office Skopje hosted its annual reception for the representatives of the government, members of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff, officers and state servants in the defense and security area, diplomats and defense attaches and other members of the International Community. </p>
<p>The reception takes place in the last month of the calendar year and with around two hundred key associates participating. In the past, it has been an excellent opportunity to enhance NATO Liaison Office Skopje’s relations with the Ministry of Defense and other related institutions and organizations.</p>
<p>The purpose of the event was for the NLO Skopje personnel to formally recognize and thank local dignitaries, community representatives and counterparts for their unwavering support over the past year. It was organized in "Moulino” restaurant in Skopje, during the midday hours of Thursday, December 7. NATO Liaison Office Skopje Chief, Slovenian Navy Captain Gorazd Bartol, addressed the guests, expressing gratitude to them for their enduring support.</p>
<p>The reception, among others, was attended by the key officials in defense, generals from the host nation army, directors and heads of sections from many other host nation ministries.&nbsp; Many heads of missions of the international organizations and embassies resident in the country and many other international and domestic representatives also attended the event.</p>
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<p>*Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name. </p>
Thu, 14 Dec 2017 09:44:23 GMTA5 Adriatic Charter Ministerial Meeting held in Ohrid https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/a5-adriatic-charter-ministerial-meeting-held-in-ohrid-.aspxAn A5 Adriatic Charter meeting between former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia officials and the NATO Liaison Office Skopje took place in Ohrid between Nov. 30 to Dec. 2.
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<p><strong><em>Story by NLO Skopje Public Affairs Office</em></strong></p>
<p><strong>OHRID, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* - </strong>An A5 Adriatic Charter meeting between former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia officials and the NATO Liaison Office Skopje took place in Ohrid between Nov. 30 to Dec. 2. </p></p>
<p>The Minister of Defence, Radmila Sekerinska, the Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, the acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence Secretary Laura Соoper and the Chief of the NATO Liaison Office Skopje, Slovenian Navy Captain Gorazd Bartol, officially opened the A 5 Adriatic Charter Ministerial meeting under the motto "Integration is the goal, cooperation is the way”.</p>
<p>"Fourteen years ago, we, with the help of our American friends, started the journey together that meant integration in NATO and that process is still ongoing,” stated Sekerinska in front of the delegations of United States of America, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Serbia, Kosovo and NATO.</p>
<p>The Minister also talked about the strategic goal of the country – membership in NATO, for which she said that is a key priority and guarantee for the regional security, stability and development.</p>
<p>"In order to achieve that goal we all must work together and with dedication. I would like to underline that we do not ask that the membership is received as a gift or gained right, but as a result of dedication, fulfilled criteria and secured domestic and political stability,” said Sekerinska. She added that former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia will show results and will prove that it deserves to become the 30th NATO member nation.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Prime Minister Zaev emphasized that the Adriatic Charter was the reason to achieve the standards and criteria for membership in the Alliance. He added that after not receiving the membership, the country was pushed into regressive political processes which culminated with the heaviest political crisis in the country. However with the assistance of the democratic forces and free-minded citizen, the country rose above the crisis and continued to believe that the Euro-Atlantic integration and regional cooperation are necessary for long-term stability of the region and the entire continent.&nbsp; </p>
<p>"Today, the country is going forward in a stable and energetic manner. We are strongly committed to the domestic reforms that improve and strengthen our democracy in order to be aligned with the political criteria for membership in NATO. We increased the defence budget and we have a strong political will to increase it each year for 0.2 % from the GDP. We have also decided to increase our participation in the peace operations,” said the Prime Minister. </p>
<p>"The Adriatic Charter, what is very important for NATO, also gave an impetus to the progress of democratic reforms in the countries of the region. It intensified national reforms, promoted the stability of Southeast Europe and enhanced the countries Euro-Atlantic integrations efforts,” said Navy Captain Gorazd Bartol in his address. </p>
<p>The ministerial meeting will continue with the plenary session of the Chief of Delegations of the US – Adriatic Charter and guest and observer countries, after which a joint statement will be signed. </p>
<p>*Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name. </p>Mon, 04 Dec 2017 16:27:00 GMTMilitary–Diplomatic Tournament Skopje 2017 Marking the Liberation of Skopje, 13 Novemberhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/military-diplomatic-tournament-skopje-2017-marking-the-liberation-of-skopje--13-november.aspxNATO Liaison Office Skopje participates in Military - Diplomatic Shooting Tournament
<div><span style="font-style: italic;">Story by NATO Advisory Team</span></div>
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<div>05 Nov 2017 - The Ministry of Defense and *the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s&nbsp; Shooting Federation organized a Military-Diplomatic Shooting Tournament "Skopje 2017″ at Kamnik Shooting Range in Skopje.</div>
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<div>The tournament in which 60 persons took part was organized on the occasion of the Liberation Day of the capital, November 13. NATO Liaison Office Skopje was represented by the Interoperability Advisor, Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Barone who competed in the tournament. Deputy Minister Bekim Maksuti, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, General Metodija Velichkovski, Generals from the army and other employees in the Ministry and the Army, members of the athletic federation and Defense Attaches were part of the tournament.</div>
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<div>"Skopje has had a very difficult history, it was repeatedly burned down and leveled with the ground, but its citizens have always found the strength and motivation to rebuild and uprise it,” Ministry of Defence’s State Secretary Dragan Nikolic said at the opening of the tournament. He added that with the organization of this event, the Ministry continues the practice of jointly marking important dates in history, in the spirit of athletics and socializing.</div>
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<div>The participants competed in two disciplines – shooting with a CZ pistol at 25 meters and shooting with an automatic rifle "Zastava” M-70 at 100 meters.</div>
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<div><span style="font-style: italic;">&nbsp;*Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.</span></div><br />
</div>Wed, 08 Nov 2017 12:10:10 GMTNATO Liason Office Skopje Chief met with the leader of the Democratic Union for Integrationhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/nato-liaison-office-skopje-chief-met-with-the-leader-of-the-democratic-union-for-integration--ali-ahmeti-.aspxPurpose of the meeting is to demonstrate the two main priorities ahead and that is the reforms in the judicial system and membership in NATO.
<div><span style="font-style: italic;">Story by NATO Advisory Team&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div>NATO Liaison office Skopje chief, Slovenian Navy Captain BARTOL Gorazd, met with the leader of the Democratic Union for Integration, AHMETI Ali on 03 Nov. During the meeting, the collocutors discussed the local elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia , the political situation and the integration in NATO.&nbsp;</div>
<div>Ali Ahmeti, the Leader of the Democratic Union of Integration (DUI) commented the decision of the first instance court on the case Kumanovo while stressing the urgent need to conduct an international investigation of the case. As part of it, exchange of important information with Kosovo and Albania is needed, forming a survey committee in the Parliament as it was for the case dubbed "Sopot” all aimed at solving the case, including the motives and organizers.&nbsp;</div>
<div>Ahmeti also emphasized that the first meeting with the international community representatives after the completion of the elections is with the NATO Liaison Office Skopje wanting to demonstrate the two main priorities ahead and that is the reforms in the judicial system and membership in NATO.&nbsp;</div>
<div>"In the days ahead we expect to complete the normative part of the Ohrid Agreement through the language equality while DUI remains dedicated to leading the reform’s process in the country through implementing the vital recommendations of the European Commission, building good neighborly relations and surpassing the disputes which will open the road towards Brussels”, stated Ahmeti.&nbsp;</div>
<div>Ahmeti assessed the elections as democratic, free and acceptable for all sides and underlined that the country needs united and constructive opposition in support to the reforms and progressive processes in the country.</div>
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</div> Mon, 06 Nov 2017 13:12:00 GMTDefence Education Enhancement Program Team from Nato International Staff completes visit to the former Yugoslav Republic Of Macedonia* https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/defence-education-enhancement-program-team-from-nato-international-staff-completes-visit-to-the-former-yugoslav-republic-of-macedonia-.aspxThe Defence Education Enhancement Program (DEEP) team from NATO International Staff payed a visit to Skopje.
<div><strong>SKOPJE, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - the Defence Education Enhancement Program (DEEP) team from NATO International Staff payed a visit to Skopje, Oct 30-Nov 2, 2017.</div>
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During their visit, Brussel’s participants focused on related issues in order to prepare a report on potential assistance to the country’s reform of its defence education system.&nbsp; <br />
The stay, which was initiated by the Secretary of Defence Sekerinska’s request to include the country in the DEEP during her recent meeting with NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg, also included a meeting with the NATO Liaison Office in Skopje to get to a better understanding.</div>
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The DEEP visit concluded with a presentation held for the NATO Liaison Office Skopje and the accredited Defence attaches. Based on the DEEP team’s report an initial action plan will be developed focusing on reforming the priorities as agreed in the defence education system. The Plan is to work on reforms of courses such as the Command Staff Course, Logistics Course and Captain’s Course that will begin in early 2018. <br />
The entire DEEP project takes place for three years with an option to extend, depending on the country’s intent to continue. </div>
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<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.</div>Fri, 03 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMTNATO Liaison Office Skopje attends the observation of municipal electionshttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/nato-liaison-office-skopje-attends-the-observation-of-municipal-elections.aspxThe NATO Liaison Office Skopje supported the international inspection the municipalities' elections.
<p><strong>SKOPJE, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* - </strong>For the sixth time, the country's citizens voted for mayors and municipal councils in 80 municipalities and at the city of Skopje, October 15, 2017.</p>
<p>The election took place in 3480 polling stations across the country and moreover than 1.8 million citizens executed their constitutional right to ballot. <br />
The mayors of municipalities’ election list included 260 candidates and 6627 candidates on 372 lists were electable to become members of municipal councils.</p>
<div>Together with a team of international observers, the NATO Liaison Office Skopje had the opportunity to inspect multiple ballot stations as such as in the Skopje region, in the municipalities of Shuto Orizari, Chair and Butel as well as in Shipkovica village in the Tetovo region. <br />
During their inspection, the international observers eye-witnessed that the election process had been executed in a fair, democratic and peaceful matter without any significant obliquities.</div>
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<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.</div>Sun, 15 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMTReinforced mechanized infantry battalion conducts live firing exercisehttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/reinforced-mechanized-infantry-battalion-conducts-live-firing-exercise.aspxThe Army of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* conducted a tactical exercise demonstrating its high level offensive operations capability, October 9, 2017.
<p><strong>KRIVOLAK TRAINING AREA, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* </strong>- the Army of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* conducted a tactical exercise demonstrating its high level offensive operations capability, October 9, 2017. <br />
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The training in which multiple Army unites participated has been witnessed by the country’s President, H.E. Gjorge Ivanov, the Ministry of Defence top leadership, high ranking active and retired Army officers as well as representatives from the NATO Liaison Office Skopje and many civilian guests. </p>
<p>The execution of comprehensive combat procedures in a complex battle field environment combined with enhanced fire power illustrated the Army’s readiness to fulfill its mission and to contribute to NATO led operations. <br />
The attending military leadership endorsed the high level of professionalism and motivation showcased by more than 800 servicemen belonging to the 1st mechanized infantry brigade reinforced by the Special Operations Regiment and the Air Brigade.</p>
<p>According to the exercise scenario, the soldiers demonstrated synchronized procedures of engaging a terrorist group by deploying Special Forces teams for example by Mi 17 helicopters, by using several types of artillery weapons, and they also trained the execution of Medical Evacuation. </p>
<p>The involved units are part of the medium Infantry Battalion Group that recently completed their combat readiness evaluation in accordance with NATO’s Operational Capabilities Concept. </p>Mon, 09 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMTDefence Minister meets with NATO International Military Staff delegationhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/defence-minister-meets-with-nato-international-military-staff-delegation.aspxDefence Minister Šekerinska met with a delegation from the NATO International Military Staff led by Polish Air Force Brigadier General Marian Jeleniewski.
<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> – Defence Minister Šekerinska met with a delegation from the NATO International Military Staff led by Polish Air Force Brigadier General Marian Jeleniewski, October 5, 2017.<br />
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The Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Šekerinska welcomed the NATO International Military Staff (IMS) delegation led by Brigadier General Marian Jeleniewski, Deputy Director of NATO IMS Security Cooperation Sector. <br />
Attended by the Chief of NATO Liaison Office Skopje, Slovenian Navy Captain Gorazd Bartol, they discussed how to expand the military cooperation between NATO and the Armed Forces of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*.</p>
<p>General Jeleniewski said that the intensified political activity of the country in regards to NATO shall be supported with closer military cooperation and he offered multiple proposals such as annual subject matter expert level staff discussions on joint interests to both sides. </p>
<p>Further, the General suggested a regular annual meeting of the NATO Military Committee with the country’s Armed Forces and more visibility through a more intensive representation in NATO structures by committing a national representative in the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Belgium and manning the positions of partner’s staff officers inside NATO’s subordinated military commands. </p>
<p>In response to this, Minister Šekerinska pointed out that the Defence Ministry and moreover the entire Government agrees with the ideas to improve the military cooperation. She expressed her clear patronage regarding the direct communication between the Armed Forces and NATO’s military structures as well as the idea to maintain annual meetings between the NATO Military Committee and the national Armed Forces while saying: <br />
"I believe that without cooperation between the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, progress cannot be achieved, and closer cooperation with NATO can only be beneficial for a NATO membership”. She added that "the NATO membership stays a strategic priority for the country.” </p>
<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.</div>Thu, 05 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMTThe Chief of the General Staff of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* visits NATO Liaison Office Skopjehttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/the-chief-of-the-general-staff-of-the-former-yugoslav-republic-of-macedonia-visits-nato-liaison-office-skopje.aspxThe Chief of the NATO Liaison Office Skopjeand his team held a working meeting with Chief of the General Staff of the Army of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, October 4, 2017.
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<strong>SKOPJE, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - The Chief of the NATO Liaison Office Skopje, Slovenian Navy Captain, Gorazd Bartol and his team held a working meeting with Chief of the General Staff of the Army of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, October 4, 2017.</p>
<div>The Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Metodija Velichkovski, has been accompanied by the Chief of the Military Cooperation Branch and the Sergeant Major of the Army, the highest non-commissioned rank. <br />
Captain (N) Bartol provided a brief on the NATO liaison office activities and the future dynamics of the joint collaboration, according to the planned coordinated forms of cooperation. <br />
He underlined the significance of the current cooperation that is the essential function of the NATO office as the Euro-Atlantic integration process, the improvement of the forces’ overall readiness and the support of transfer of experiences in terms of military and security reforms that have been made so far. <br />
In addition, Captain (N) Bartol stressed out the relevance of its advisory team’s contribution to ongoing joint operations in the Balkans.</div>
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<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.</div>Wed, 04 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMTDistinguished Visitor’s Day to the international military-police exercise Joint Reaction 17https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/distinguished-visitors-day-to-the-international-militarypolice-exercise-joint-reaction-17.aspxA Distinguished Visitors day took place during Joint Reaction 17 to showcase various combat procedures and situations on Thursday in the Army Training Area Krivolak.
<p><strong><em>Story by NATO Advisory Team</em></strong></p>
<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - A Distinguished Visitors day took place during Joint Reaction 17 to showcase various combat procedures and situations on Thursday in the Army Training Area Krivolak. </p>
<p>Among the military officials of the army of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, the defence attaches accredited in the country, representatives from the NATO Liaison Office and other guests were present for the demonstration exercise. <br />
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The participants in the exercise Joint Reaction 17 demonstrated various combat procedures and situations, such as search of populated area with cordon and helicopter evacuation of casualties and wounded.&nbsp; The soldiers were validated to be well trained.<br />
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"In the past four days, the capabilities, skills, and top training were exhibited by the units participating in the exercise,” said Colonel Blazhe Nikolovski, exercise Joint Reaction 17 director. "It was a period during which we were given the possibility to see how one task, with tactics, techniques and exercises was attained by the officers, NCOs and the soldiers from Albania, Bosnian &amp; Herzegovina, Montenegro, Vermont and Minnesota National Guards, the 709th Battalion of the 18th military police brigade from the USA armed forces in Europe and the Military Police battalion from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s armed forces.”<br />
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The exercise provided exchange of experience, capabilities, knowledge and skills in order to increase the mutual understanding of military police capabilities from the A5 Initiative, thus creating preconditions for absolute success during accomplishment and planning of future joint operations.&nbsp; </p>
<p>*Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.&nbsp; </p>
Fri, 29 Sep 2017 14:53:51 GMTFormer Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* Ministers meet with NATO Deputy Secretary Generalhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/former-yugoslav-republic-of-macedonia-ministers-meet-with-nato-deputy-secretary-general.aspxThe Defence Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister of former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia met with NATO representatives in Brussels on Wednesday to discuss the stability and security of Western Balkans, the political situation in the country and the progress of the reforms made by the new government.
<div><strong><em>Story by NATO Advisory Team</em></strong></div>
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<div><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - The Defence Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister of former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia met with NATO representatives in Brussels on Wednesday.<br />
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Defence Minister Radmila Shekerinska and Foreign Affairs Minister Nikola Dimitrov of former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia met with NATO Deputy Secretary General, Rose Gottemoeller, right before the meeting of the North Atlantic Council (NAC+1).</div>
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The NATO Liaison Office, as NATO representative and Chief of the NATO Liaison Office Skopje, Slovenian Navy Captain, Gorazd Bartol was also present for the&nbsp; meetings.</div>
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During the meeting, the stability and security of Western Balkans, the political situation in the country and the progress of the reforms made by the new government were discussed.<br />
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Gottemoeller expressed gratitude for the participation of former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s armed forces in Afghanistan and said that the country is a valued NATO partner.<br />
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"The reforms that enhance rule of law, good neighborly relations in your multiethnic society are of benefit to all citizens,” said Gottemoeller. "The progress in implementing the reforms requires time and effort, but the reforms will be of great use to your country while you’re getting close to your Euro-Atlantic aspirations.”<br />
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Gottemoeller, also emphasized that NATO wants to see the country achieve its aspirations as successfully integrated state in stable and prosperous region.<br />
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"The NATO doors remain open and NATO will continue to support your nation on the path towards membership in the Alliance,” said Gottemoeller.</div>
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Dimitrov emphasized the new democracy in the country succeeded to accomplish the political change in conditions of institutional and even in moral crisis.<br />
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"We decided to invest in democracy so there is no repeat of the last years, we want free media, functional parliament, independent judiciary system, because as the NATO nations share the same values,” said Dimitrov. "We shall give the Alliance many reasons why the country shall become the 30th member of NATO. We see the region through a perspective, we will either succeed together or not. We are a country that builds bridges. We are proud of the agreement signed with Bulgaria, and we will continue to move region in a good direction, more experienced with the crisis and so the other can move forward.”<br />
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Shekerinska stressed that the country is a partner of NATO and it can be trusted. She also said that the government continues to be dedicated to return the country on the path to the reforms and membership in EU and NATO. <br />
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"We are here to complete the 17th cycle for membership in NATO,” said Shekerinska. "As Government, we are determined through the plan 3-6-9 to focus fully on the democratic reforms: rule of law, independent media, independent judiciary system, professional administration. Without democracy and the rule of law, all of our countries look less secure and less stable.”<br />
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She also said the Government has passed a decision that to develop the new defence strategy and new strategic defence review, which will provide frames of manners and policies, the country can deal better with the security challenges. She emphasized that army’s budget will be gradually increased starting with 2018. She informed that the government has approved 20 percent increase of the contribution to the mission "Resolute Support” starting next year.<br />
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Right after the press statements the ministers went to meeting of North Atlantic Council during which the 17th Membership Action Plan for membership of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in the Alliance will be concluded.<br />
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*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.</div>Fri, 29 Sep 2017 13:04:00 GMTNATO donates for blind people in Bitola https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/nato-donates-for-blind-people-in-bitola-.aspxChief of NATO Liaison Office Skopje attends donation ceremony, Sept. 16, 2017.
<p><strong>BITOLA , Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* - </strong>The NATO representative, Chief of NATO's Liaison Office Skopje, Slovenian Navy Captain Bartol, attended the handover ceremony of the NATO Charity Bazaar donation to the Association of blind people, September 16, 2017.</p>
<div>Computers equiped with specialized software to the value of 10.000 Euro have been donated by the NATO Charity Bazaar and in addition by the Bitola's GAUS Institute for new technologies, innovations and transfer of knowledge to the Association of blind people in Bitola. The total value of the entire donation represents 15.000 Euro. <br />
The donation enables the blind people to use internet, and includes computerized appliance as such as ten laptop computers, numerous printer devices and network equipment as well as special software for blind people adjusted to the country’s language.&nbsp; <br />
All computers contain the so-called screen leader software adapted for the blind in their language which allows them to enter the world of information technologies and voice communications. </div>
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<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.<br />
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<p>&nbsp;</p>Sat, 16 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMTCommander NATO Kosovo Forces pays a visit to Skopjehttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/commander-nato-kosovo-forces-pays-a-visit-to-skopje.aspxA KFOR delegation visited military and Ministry of Defence officials in Skopje.
<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> – A KFOR delegation met with the General Staff of the Army and representatives of the Ministry of Defence of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, September 11, 2017. </p>
<div>A KFOR delegation led by the Commander, Italian Army Major General Fungo visited the General Staff of the Army and the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Radmila Šekerinska. The meetings have also been attended by the NATO Liaison Office Skopje led by its Chief, Slovenian Navy Captain Gorazd Bartol. <br />
The Chief of the General Staff of the Army of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Lieutenant General Metodija Velichkovski, stressed the great cooperation between his forces and KFOR. During the meeting, the attendees discussed the current security situation in the region and how to improve the cooperation and to enhance the regional stability. <br />
Both, the KFOR service men and their national hosts appreciated the beneficial relationship with the NATO Liaison Office. </div>
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General Fungo valued the fact that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* provides continuous logistic support to NATO up from the early beginning of its KFOR mission. <br />
The Host Nation Support Coordination Center that reached its full operational capability in June 2007 focus on the logistical support of KFOR in terms of customs and border procedures of transport as well on coordination of the KFOR and national forces collaboration.&nbsp; </div>
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<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia under its constitutional name.&nbsp;</div>Mon, 11 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMTDefence Minister and NATO Liaison Office Skopje Chief honor the country's Independence Dayhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/defence-minister-and-nato-liaison-office-skopje-chief-honor-the-countrys-independence-day.aspxThe minister of Defence, Radmila Shekerinska, and the Chief NATO Liaison Office, Slovenian Navy Captain Bartol, honored the Independence Day of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Sep 8, 2017.
<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*</strong> - The Minister of Defence, Radmila Shekerinska, and the Chief NATO Liaison Office, Slovenian Navy Captain Bartol, honored the Independence Day of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Sep 8, 2017. </p>
<p>The ceremony took place among the local population at Busheva Mountain near the town of Krushevo.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Both the Defence Minister and the chief NLO Skopje were accompanied by the ambassadors of EU, Samuel Zhbogar, United Kingdom, Charles Garreth, defence attaches, members of the Defence ministry and NATO Liaison Skopje, as well as members of the mountain hiking association "Risto Karpush”, participated in the festivity "Together to the top” celebrating the September 8 event.</p>
<p>In her speech on top of mountain, the Minister said: "Please allow me to express my best wishes to all citizens and wish prosperity and stability in the next 26 years. We have passed through good and bad moments in the last 26 years and have shown that having a common goal, by being persistent, it can be reached. Today, we need unity regarding our common goal – membership in NATO and EU”.&nbsp; </p>
<p>She added that the aim of this year’s September 8 celebration was different from the previous ones- to conduct it at this special location together with the citizens from Krushevo and the region and all the official representatives from the various entities. </p>
<p>"The hike was not easy, but together, without giving up, we reached the goal. We want this unity and persistence to be used for the country to proceed forward. I would like to thank the senior NATO officer in the country, Captain (N) Bartol and his team. We will be a partner on which they can lean. Together we are stronger”, Minister Shekerinska stressed out.&nbsp; </p>
<p>While honoring the Independence Day, Captain (N) Bartol expressed his belief that all 29 NATO member nations support the country in becoming the 30th member nation in NATO. He emphasized that the NATO office stands ready to assist in any way it can. </p>
<p>According to the country’s authorities, the September 8 event symbolizes the endeavor of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* towards full-fledged membership in the North Atlantic Alliance and the connection with the partner nations. </p>
<div><em>Story by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.</div>Mon, 11 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMTSecurity forum discusses NATO-EU cooperationhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/security-forum-discusses-natoeu-cooperation.aspxThe Marshall Center Security Forum – Ohrid 2017 took place at the Granit Hotel, Ohrid, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Aug. 25-29.
<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*--</strong> The Marshall Center Security Forum – Ohrid 2017 took place at the Granit Hotel, Ohrid, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Aug. 25-29.</p>
<p>The topic of the forum was "NATO-EU Cooperation in the Design of Stability for the Western Balkans”.</p>
<p>The event was organized by the NATO Public Diplomacy Department, the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies, NATO College in Rome and the host country’s alumni association at the Marshall Center.</p>
<p>The focus of the forum was cooperation between NATO and the European Union in regards to projecting stability in the western Balkan countries and wider. The event was officially opened by Stojan Slaveski, the president of the George C. Marshall alumni in the country. Lectures were also given by a variety of groups including the American Embassy in Skopje, the NATO Liaison Office from Skopje and representatives from regional and global associations.</p>
<p>Bekim Maxuti, the Deputy Minister of Defence in former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, also addressed the forum, and he emphasized the country’s contribution in NATO and EU. He also stressed the commitment of the country towards gaining collective membership, which remains to be top priority for the country. Maxuti capped off his speech touting the significance of the good neighborly relations and the regional cooperation between the countries in the region, especially in the area of defence and security. </p>
<p>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.</p>
<p><em>Story by NATO Advisory Team</em><br />
</p>Tue, 29 Aug 2017 13:16:00 GMTArmy's 25th Anniversary marked with ceremony, celebrationshttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/armys-25th-anniversary-marked-with-ceremony--celebrations.aspxThe 25th anniversary of the formation of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s Army was marked at the military stadium in Skopje, Aug. 18, 2017.
<div><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* --</strong> The 25th anniversary of the formation of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s Army was marked at the military stadium in Skopje, Aug. 18, 2017.</div>
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The country’s Minister of Defence, Radmila Sekerinska, was at the ceremony and said that together with NATO, the country can overcome challenges and threats towards jointly held values. Other important political and social figures were present, including President Gjorge Ivanov. Ivanov said that NATO is a privilege, but one that comes with responsibility. As a result, he called for 2% of the state budget to be allocated for the defence sector.</div>
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The anniversary was recognized with several other activities including a museum exhibition and flowers laid on the partisan graves and on the burial sites of former late presidents. A display of military equipment, which was open to the public, was also held in conjunction with short exercises organized by members of the Special Operations Regiment, the Honour Battalion and the Canine Centre.</div>
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Throughout the country, other commemoration ceremonies and celebrations were organized at various Army garrisons.</div>
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NATO Liaison Office representatives attended the museum’s exhibition opening as well as the central ceremony at the stadium.</div>
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*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.</div>
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<em>Story by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>Tue, 22 Aug 2017 10:58:56 GMTDragoon Guardian 17 DV Day takes place at Krivolakhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/dragoon-guardian-17-dv-day-takes-place-at-krivolak.aspxSKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia&nbsp; -- A Distinguished Visitor Day for Exercise Dragoon 17 took place at the Army Training Area Krivolak, July 31, 2017.
<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia&nbsp; -- </strong>A Distinguished Visitor Day for Exercise Dragoon Guardian&nbsp;17 took place at the Army Training Area Krivolak, July 31, 2017.</p>
<p>NATO Liaison Office Skopje was represented at the visitor day by its chief, Slovenian Navy Capt. Gorazd Bartol, and advisors. Several government officials from the host country were also present at the ceremony, to include Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, Defence Minister Radmila Shekerinska, Minister of Interior Oliver Spasovski and American Ambassador Jess Baily.</p>
<p>Dragoon Guardian 17, which started on July 26, and is slated to run until Aug. 8, is a bilateral exercise between the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and the U.S.&nbsp; Approximately 300 U.S. troops, along with more than 100 military vehicles, from U.S. Army Europe arrived from Bulgaria to participate in the exercise alongside nearly 100 members of an engineer battalion within the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade. </p>
<p>During the visitor’s day, military units from the two participating nations demonstrated building runways for unmanned aerial vehicles. Equipment and weapons that were used during the exercise in the cities of Kumanovo, Skopje, Veles and Shtip, were also demonstrated.</p>
<p>The exercise was aimed at enhancing operating procedures and improving the interoperability, mutual understanding and trust, as well strengthening cooperation.</p>
<p><em>Story by NATO Advisory Team, NLO Skopje</em></p>
<p><em>1 -&nbsp;Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name. </em></p>Tue, 01 Aug 2017 12:25:00 GMTNATO Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy visits Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia https://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/nato-assistant-secretary-general-for-public-diplomacy-visits-former-yugoslav-republic-of-macedonia-.aspxThe Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy, Ambassador Tacan Ildem, discusses opportunities with NATO with Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia leadership&nbsp; in Skopje from July 19 to 20.
<div><em>Story by NATO Liaison Office in Skopje</em></div>
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<p><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia </strong>– To show support for the reform process in the Former Yugoslav of Republic*, the Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy paid a visit to the country from July 19 to 20.</p>
<p>The Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy, Ambassador Tacan Ildem met with Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, the Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Radmila Shekerinska, the Speaker of Parliament, Taljat Xhaferi, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikola Dimitrov. He also visited the only NATO certified Public Affairs Regional Center, located in Skopje. </p>
<p>During the meetings, as reported in the releases from Government, the Ministry of Defence, the Parliament, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ildem strongly encouraged the efforts of the new government to implement the reforms required for membership in NATO.&nbsp; He stressed that NATO expects concrete results according to the recommendations from the NATO Warsaw Summit Communique.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Shekerinska reiterated during her meeting with Ildem that membership in NATO is a strategic commitment for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia which is highly supported by the public.<br />
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On July 20, Ildem took part in a debate with Non-Governmental Organizations, think-tanks, representatives of the academia and other opinion makers in the country. </p>
<p>Ildem, on several occasions, emphasized readiness for reforms exists in the country and NATO supports the country on its road towards achieving them. He also underscored the NATO Liaison Office in Skopje as the primary venue through which NATO is extending support but, if required, assistance and expertise can be received from the different divisions of the NATO HQ in Brussels. </p>
<p>* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.<br />
</p></div>Fri, 21 Jul 2017 10:26:35 GMTVolunteer troops take their oathhttps://jfcnaples.nato.int/hqskopje/news-at-skopje/2017/volunteer-troops-take-their-oath.aspx<strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* - </strong>Troops from the NATO Advisory Team of the NATO Liaison Office Skopje took part in the voluntary service Soldiers’ oath in Veles, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, July 7, 2017.
<div><strong>SKOPJE, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* - </strong>Troops from the NATO Advisory Team of the NATO Liaison Office Skopje took part in the voluntary service Soldiers’ oath in Veles, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, July 7, 2017.</div>
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<div>The event takes place three or four times a year at the Training and Doctrine Center in Veles.</div>
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<div>The Minister of Defence, Radmila Shekerinska, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Army Major General Muhamet Racaj, and other high officials were present at the ceremony. </div>
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<div>Shekerinska thanked the attendees for being there for the Soldiers, including the NATO Liaison Office Skopje, for its continuous support. She told the troops they’re the future defenders of the country and ambassadors of peace in multi-national peace operations. The Minister also expressed hope that the new Soldiers will seek a career in the profession of arms. </div>
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<div>Within the new class of 50 volunteer Soldiers, there were 10 females, a considerably higher number compared to previous generations. Over the next few months, they will undergo basic training in the Individual Training Center.&nbsp; </div>
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<div><em>Story and photo by NATO Advisory Team</em></div>
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<div>*Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.</div>Tue, 11 Jul 2017 12:52:00 GMT